It’s time to face an uncomfortable fact: as important as it is, traditional flossing is hard to do. That’s why so many people skip it, which is definitely a mistake. Water flossers (often called by the brand name Waterpik) offer a much easier-to-use help but not replacement.
However, just owning a water pick isn’t enough to keep the cavities away. Like any tool, there’s a learning curve. If you’ve ever ended up with a soaked bathroom mirror or a sore spot on your gums, you might be using it not quite as intended.
Set It Up Right
Start by filling the reservoir with lukewarm water. Cold water is fine, but it can be a lot on sensitive teeth, especially when in a pressurized stream.
Next, pick the right tip. Most units come with a variety of attachments:
● Classic Jet Tip: Everyday use.
● Orthodontic Tip: For cleaning around braces and brackets.
● Pik Pocket Tip: For reaching deeper into periodontal pockets.
● Plaque Seeker Tip: For implants, crowns, and bridges.
Lean Over the Sink and Close Your Mouth
This is the step that saves your bathroom from looking like a water park. If you turn on the water flosser while standing upright and looking in the mirror, you’re going to get sprayed.
Instead, lean over the sink so your face is horizontal. Put the tip in your mouth and close your lips just enough to prevent splashing, but leave them open slightly so the water can flow out of your mouth and into the drain.
Find the Right Pressure
If you’re new to water flossing, don’t start at the highest setting. Your gums need time to get used to the sensation. Start at the lowest pressure and work your way up. You want the stream to be firm, but it should never feel painful or cause significant bleeding. For the most popular brands, that is usually about 50% of the maximum setting.
Trace, Don’t Spray
Start with your back molars and work your way toward the front. Hold the tip at a 90-degree angle to your teeth. You’re aiming at the space where the tooth meets the gum. Gently trace the gumline. When you reach the space between two teeth, pause for a second or two. Don’t forget to clean the “inside” of your teeth (the tongue side) as well as the “outside” (the cheek side).
Is It a Replacement for String Floss?
This is the million-dollar question. While a Waterpik is effective at flushing out debris and reducing gum inflammation, it works differently from string floss. String floss uses “mechanical scraping” to remove stubborn biofilm from the sides of your teeth.
For most people, the water pick is a supplement to flossing. However, if you absolutely refuse to use string floss, a water pick is better than doing nothing at all! However, if you have braces, implants, or permanent bridges, a water flosser is a must-have.
Why Your Gums Will Thank You
When used correctly, a water flosser is very effective at reaching into the “pockets” of the gums where traditional floss can’t go. This helps reduce the risk of gingivitis and keeps your breath smelling fresh.
If you’ve recently picked up a water flosser and aren’t sure if you’re getting the most out of it, bring it up at your next appointment at Foutz Family Dentistry. We can give you a quick “hands-on” demo to make sure your technique is right.
